GameDev Reincarnated into His Own Creation

Vol 2 - Chapter 17.1 - Class::Quarter

"Look at those accessories!" Hileya gasped, indicating a shop with displays of jewelry and ornaments that would cost a village guard's annual salary.

"And that!" Celia added, pointing toward a dressing shop with elaborate gowns displayed in the window.

Vel stayed quiet, memorizing each turn and landmark. He observed the larger intersections, distinctive corner buildings, and guard patrol patterns, preparing himself for potential navigation.

The carriage stopped before a modest building with sturdy brick walls. Despite its unassuming exterior, Vel saw multiple wings extending from the main structure, hinting at its true size.

"Here we are," Mora announced, gathering her belongings.

As Vel shifted to exit, he suddenly felt the peculiar numbness in his legs from sitting too long. When he finally stepped down onto the cobblestone street, his brain still registered the swaying motion of the carriage, making his first few steps awkwardly unbalanced.

Vel stretched, trying to work feeling back into his limbs while scanning their surroundings. The immediate area appeared well-maintained but lacked the ostentatious displays of wealth evident in other parts of this district.

"They probably didn't expect us to arrive at this hour," Mora remarked, looking toward the entrance door with a slight frown.

Before Vel could respond, the main door swung open, and an older man in a neat uniform stepped out. His posture was impeccable as he approached their group with measured steps.

"Welcome to Merchant Nema's residence," the gatekeeper greeted them with a slight bow. "We've been expecting you, though perhaps not quite this timing. Please, allow me to lead you to master Nema."

While the others gathered their belongings, Vel noticed a smaller gate in the wall. People passed through it with ease—a young woman with books, an older man with a walking stick, two laughing teenagers—entering and exiting without acknowledging the gatekeeper or seeking permission.

Vel frowned. The steady flow of residents indicated this was more shared lodgings than a private residence. He had anticipated the merchants would secure private accommodations, like a small house or suite, but this building obviously housed many occupants.

"Are we... sharing the building?" Vel asked, turning toward Mora.

The gatekeeper smiled faintly at Vel's question. "Ah, that depends on the contract that you will sign with Master Nema. You can still have your private quarter, on a different wing. The west wing, however, is a shared lodging, for people that came to Lona—students, workers, mostly young people that Master Nema took interest in."

Vel nodded, mentally adjusting his expectations. A shared building with separate quarters wasn't ideal, but it made more sense than the merchants providing completely private accommodations.

"As for this young servant," the gatekeeper continued, glancing at Hileya, "it's the master's choice to let her stay with you or stay in the servant quarters along with others. For today, rooms have been prepared as Lady Halen instructed."

Mora stepped forward, addressing the carriage driver. "You can have your rest now. I'll find you again next day for other business."

The driver nodded, securing the reins before climbing down from his seat.

A realization struck Vel—this marked the end of their guided journey. Mora had safely delivered them to Lona, and now he would have to navigate this world alone. The thought felt overwhelmingly familiar, echoing his old life.